The apology was too small for the damage.
But he did not want revenge.
He wanted the truth.
He looked toward his mother.
"I don't want either of you contacting Sophie until we've worked out what is appropriate."
Evelyn's face changed.
"You can't keep my granddaughter from me."
Daniel felt the familiar anger rise.
But this time, he did not retreat.
"Sophie is not something you are entitled to."
The words struck the older woman.
She stared.
Daniel continued.
"She's a child. Today she was frightened and humiliated because of what happened in this room."
Evelyn tried to speak.
He raised one hand.
"No."
The gesture was not threatening.
It was final.
"You don't get to use her relationship with you to avoid responsibility."
For several seconds, the older woman said nothing.
Then her expression changed from anger to something almost desperate.
"I'm your mother."
Daniel swallowed.
"I know."
She stepped closer.
"I did everything for you."
His eyes filled.
"And I loved you for it."
He took a breath.
"But you don't get to destroy my life and call it protection."
Evelyn stared.
Daniel looked toward the ballroom doors.
Then walked away.
Neither woman followed him.
Mara had barely finished helping Sophie out of her princess dress when Daniel called.
The little girl was sitting on the bed wearing soft pajamas, holding a stuffed rabbit and listening to the familiar sounds of home.
Mara glanced at the phone.
Daniel.
For a moment, she considered letting it ring.
She was exhausted.
Angry.
And worried about her daughter.
But she knew he would be frightened too.
She answered.
"Hello."
Daniel's voice sounded broken.
"Mara."
She stood.
"Is everything all right?"
A long silence followed.
Then he said quietly, "No."
Mara closed her eyes.
She could hear him breathing.
For several seconds, neither spoke.
Then he asked, "How's Sophie?"
Mara looked toward the bedroom.
"Upset."
He swallowed.
"Did she eat?"